April 17

Carl Friedrich Philipp von Martius traveled to Brazil in 1817 on a major expedition with zoologist Johann Baptist von Spix. Over two years in the Amazon, he collected thousands of plant specimens and documented previously unknown species. Martius published the monumental Flora Brasiliensis, cataloging Brazil's plant diversity across multiple volumes. He later became a professor of botany at the University of Munich and continued taxonomic research. Martius's work laid the groundwork for modern tropical botany and influenced generations of naturalists.

Edouard Wyss-Dunant was born on April 17, 1897 in Switzerland. A trained physician, he balanced his medical career with a passion for mountaineering. Wyss-Dunant led numerous expeditions in the Swiss Alps, demonstrating leadership and resilience. He applied his medical knowledge to improve safety and care for fellow climbers. Throughout his life, he inspired both patients and adventurers with his dual pursuits. He died in 1983, remembered for blending medicine and exploration.

Mike Stroud is an English physician and polar explorer who has undertaken record-breaking treks. He partnered with explorer Ranulph Fiennes on expeditions such as the unsupported crossing of Antarctica. Stroud has led scientific research into human physiology under extreme conditions. He holds multiple endurance records, including the fastest north-to-south crossing of Greenland. As an author, he shares insights on survival, training, and the science behind human endurance.